La Prairie is one of my favorite brands, I have been using it on and off for the past eight years and absolutely love it. It's quite invasive for a cream and you can literally feel it working once applied to your skin. It contains anti-oxidants, unique algae extract, and hydrates your skin. Definitely a five star from me.

Kerastase Resistance Strengthening Masque is advertised as a product that strengthens damaged, bristle and dry hair.

It was recommended to me in one of Dublin's salons when I was getting a blowdry – my hair is fine and quite damaged from highlights bleaching, particularly at the ends. Honestly... I didn't notice any results or benefits, it felt like a good quality conditioner. I have since then tried another product by Paul Mitchell – the difference was obvious after the first use. I will be putting up a review on it shortly.

The serum is advertised to contour your eye area and lips. It nourishes skin, providing deep moisture, filling the lines and giving a younger refreshed look to your skin.

I found out about it when getting a facial in Shelbourne Spa - the therapist used it on my lips. I wasn't aware of the optical effect at the time, but was amazed at how it felt. I tend to have quite dry lips - and this serum is my life-saver! I asked the therapist to make sure it was added to the list of recommended products after the procedure.

http://www.elemis.com/pro-definition-eye-lip-contour-cream.html

4 Pevonia Stem Cells Multi Active Foaming Cleanser

Price: €42

This line contains a blend of Argan and Comfrey Root Stem Cells - for mature skin showing age signs.

I like Pevonia line, I have been using it for years. Just like La Prairie, I find this brand works deep in your skin - although this line is less 'invasive' than Power Repair or Myoxy Caviar, I still enjoy it's benefits. It works best when used in conjunction with the serum, followed by the cream (day and night).

http://pevoniaglobal.com/stem-cells-phyto-elite-cleanser/

5 Pevonia Stem Cells Intensive Cream

Price: €112

http://pevoniaglobal.com/stem-cells-phyto-elite-cream/

6 Pevonia Stem Cells Intensive Serum

Price: €108

http://pevoniaglobal.com/stem-cells-phyto-elite-serum/

7 Elemis Papaya Enzyme Peel

Price: €41.50

This is a gentle non-granular exfoliator. It's a little too gentle for my liking when used on it's own - I use it with my Clinique exfoliating brush (which I will be reviewing in my next post!) - and those two leave my skin glowing and soft, just like after a professional facial.

I wrote up this post straight after the proceedure. It's called Microblading, or Eyebrow Embroidery. I am absolutely deligted with the results.

A little bit of a background story - I wanted to get my eyebrows done for years (I am one of the victims of overplucking), however finding the right person for it was quite a task. Eyebrows are the frame of your face - hence the person doing it, in my opinion, must have artistic skills - that's where the main issue for me was. One day I stumbled upon Branko Babik's work - it's pure art, however I missed my opportunity to get it done by him last year. I was recommended to go to Vesna Jugovic, who runs his Phibrows branch in Vienna. This is what my eyebrows looked like:

She then used her tools to measure and establish the right proportions and curves of the brows.

Once I was happy with the shape and the suggested colour (she recommended matching my natural eyebrow colour), Vesna proceeded with hair strokes application using a blade. Minor pain, not anything significant. Here is the result:

As a final step I had this mask applied to my brows:

The cost of the proceedure was €259 + €50 for correction which I will have to go back for in 4-6 weeks, just in time for the Christmas markets!

I visit Paris twice a year to attend the global textile event for fashion professionals. During those trips I also visit my suppliers most of whom are located in Paris or the outskirts. This time round I decided to make this trip a little more cultured and adventurous. Starting with my hotel – I picked a weird one, Hotel Amour. I have to say I really enjoyed my stay there. The rooms are corky, the restaurant and bar get very busy at night, the staff was friendly, and they have such a cute and cosy terrace and garden!!! I fell in love with it!

During this trip I have spent a lot of time learning new trends and technologies. You can find out more about upcoming trends for this summer here (link). Here I am at the event, chatting to my suppliers.

I also visited my fur supplier during my visit. He is located in the centre of Paris, and does a lot of work for Hermès. I have ordered a variety of fox fur shawls – they are an absolute luxury and are specially made in Paris for my boutique. They are handmade using a unique technique to make them reversible – a great idea for a timeless Christmas gift for that special lady.

On my last day I went to Galerie Kreo – it was recommended to me by a friend, as I am shopping for new furniture pieces for my apartment. They sell vintage tables and chairs along with lighting from world famous designers. I have since been debating with myself over a drawer unit…